Question 1

What is the difference between mid-century and mid-century modern?

Accepted Answer

The difference between mid-century and mid-century modern comes down to specificity. When it comes to furniture and architecture, for example, mid-century refers to works that emerged during the middle of the 20th century, usually between 1950 and 1970. The more specific descriptor, mid-century modern, is used to refer to a particular style of design that emphasizes simplicity, organic forms and clean lines. Mid-century modern furniture designers generally drew on the architectural work of Frank Lloyd Wright, Bauhaus design, Scandinavian modernism and more. Any piece of furniture produced during the 1950s and ’60s can be referred to as mid-century, but only those with specific characteristics are mid-century modern. That said, when enthusiasts of furniture and architecture use the shorter of the two phrases, they may indeed be referring to modernist works created during that period in history. On 1stDibs, find a wide variety of mid-century modern furniture.

Question 2

What is mid century furniture?

Accepted Answer

Mid-century furniture is furniture created within the period of 1933 to 1965 but most would argue that the style began to emerge in the postwar years. This style of furniture is known for its sleek lines and organic shapes. The creators most frequently associated with mid-century modern furniture believed that good design meant good living. Mid-century modern is today by far the largest category of furnishings on 1stDibs.

Question 3

What is mid-century jewelry?

Accepted Answer

Mid-century jewelry is a style of jewelry that rose in popularity along with the mid-century modern design movement. Pieces from this era typically feature bold, geometric designs. Shop a variety of mid-century jewelry and accessories from some of the world’s top dealers on 1stDibs.

Question 4

What is a mid-century chair?

Accepted Answer

A mid-century chair is a piece of seating furniture that was designed at any point during the middle of the 20th century. Mid-century modern furniture is characterized by pieces that were conceived and made in an energetic, optimistic spirit by creators who believed that good design was an essential part of good living. The mid-century period provided an excellent opportunity to experiment with both functional and decorative forms. Mid-century modern chairs were made with a variety of natural and synthetic materials, combining leather, wood, and cane with chrome, steel, and plastic. Shop a range of vintage mid-century chairs on 1stDibs today.

Question 5

What does mid century mean?

Accepted Answer

The mid-century modern style emerged primarily in the years following World War II. This style of decor is characterized by sleek lines, organic forms, minimal ornamentation and high functionality. Creators of mid-century modern furniture believed that good design meant good living, and mid-century modern is today by far the largest category of furnishings on 1stDibs.

Question 6

What is a mid-century sofa?

Accepted Answer

A mid-century sofa is any sofa created during the mid-20th century. Mid-century modern sofas are pieces of seating furniture that embody the venturesome attributes that we associate with mid-century modern furniture — while not all sofas designed in the mid-century modern style are the same, they frequently have a low profile and are characterized by gentle curves, clean lines and an organic shape. Mid-century furniture is a timeless classic due to its elegant simplicity. Shop a collection of antique, vintage, and contemporary mid-century sofas from some of the world’s top dealers on 1stDibs.

Question 7

What is mid-century artwork?

Accepted Answer

Mid-century artwork is any piece of art produced during the middle of the 20th century. It includes paintings, drawings, prints, sculptures, collages, pottery and other media. You'll find a large selection of mid-century artwork from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Question 8

What is mid century decor?

Accepted Answer

Mid-century modern decor was popularized during the period of 1933 to 1965 but most would suggest that the style emerged during the years that followed World War II. This style of decor is typically characterized by sleek lines, organic forms, minimal ornamentation and high functionality. Find the finest mid-century modern furnishings and more on 1stDibs.

Question 9

Why is mid century modern popular?

Accepted Answer

Most experts agree that mid-century modern correlates specifically to the years following World War II. It has grown in popularity in the decades since, particularly due to the media and cultural institutions that have promoted the truly innovative era of design. Not only did the MoMA promote modern furniture, but pieces are prominently visible on the set of very popular television shows such as Mad Men. Shop a wide and beautiful range of mid-century modern furniture on 1stDibs.

Question 10

What time is considered mid-century??

Accepted Answer

Mid-century is considered the middle of the century, however as it pertains to furniture and design, mid-century is an American design movement known for its modern style, construction and the Modernist movement. It is typically simple and clean lines without embellishments. Shop a range of mid-century modern designs on 1stDIbs.

Question 11

How do you identify mid century lamps?

Accepted Answer

To identify mid-century lamps, look for a manufacturer's label or stamp on the base or the shade. You can use trusted online resources to determine when the company or artisan was active. Some lamps may also have a date stamp that you can use for identification purposes. Pieces dating from the late 1950s through the early 1970s are mid-century in terms of their age. A mid-century modern lamp will show off hallmarks of the design style, such as curvy hourglass or globe forms. A certified appraiser or experienced antiques dealer may also be able to help with the identification. Find a range of mid-century lamps on 1stDibs.

Question 12

Is Mondrian mid century modern?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Mondrian’s art is believed to be one of the great inspirations for the mid-century modern approach to minimalism. His artworks were not just a departure from figurative works, but a new look at abstract art as well. On 1stDibs, find a variety of original artwork from top artists.

Question 13

Is mid-century modern timeless?

Accepted Answer

Yes, mid-century modern is timeless, in the opinion of many experts. Many characteristics of furniture and decorative accents produced in this style remain popular today. Among them are silhouettes marked by organic forms and clean lines, the promotion of functionality and the use of natural materials like teak, rosewood and oak and synthetic materials such as steel, fiberglass and molded plywood. On 1stDibs, shop a large collection of mid-century modern furniture.

Question 14

How can you tell if furniture is mid century?

Accepted Answer

To tell if furniture is mid-century modern, examine the piece, looking for labels and markings that indicate who produced it. Then, consult trusted online resources to determine when the maker was active and what styles of furniture they made. Iconic mid-century modern furniture designers include Charles and Ray Eames, Eero Saarinen, Milo Baughman, Florence Knoll, Harry Bertoia and Isamu Noguchi. A knowledgeable dealer or certified appraiser can help you determine if a particular piece is genuine mid-century modern or a reproduction. Shop a range of mid-century modern furniture on 1stDibs.

Question 15

How can you tell if a chair is mid century?

Accepted Answer

To tell if a chair is mid-century, look for labels and markings that indicate its maker. Then, use trusted online resources to determine when the company was active. A certified appraiser or experienced antiques dealer can be of assistance when dating chairs. Iconic mid-century modern furniture designers include Charles and Ray Eames, Eero Saarinen, Milo Baughman, Florence Knoll, Harry Bertoia and Isamu Noguchi. Find a variety of mid-century modern chairs on 1stDibs.

Question 16

Is rattan mid-century modern?

Accepted Answer

Yes, some rattan is mid-century modern. Designers of the mid-century modern movement often preferred to use natural materials, including rattan, in their designs. However, not all rattan furniture was made during this period. Rattan was also a popular material for furniture produced during the Victorian era and continues to be used to produce furniture today. Shop a wide range of rattan furniture on 1stDibs.

Question 17

What makes a dresser mid-century?

Accepted Answer

A dresser is a mid-century dresser if it was made during the middle of the 20th century. The years that encompass the mid-century modern period are roughly 1933 until 1965, but most experts argue, however, that the mid-century modern period correlates specifically to the years following World War II. Mid-century modern dressers will likely have specific characteristics. There was a use of natural and man-made materials that included alluring woods such as teak, rosewood and oak as well as steel, fiberglass and molded plywood. An authentic mid-century modern dresser will also be characterized by simplicity, organic forms and clean lines. Shop an assortment of vintage mid-century dressers on 1stDibs.

Question 18

Are the 1970s mid-century?

Accepted Answer

No, the 1970s are generally not considered to fall within the era identified as mid-century. With respect to mid-century modern design, while there is some debate between collectors and design experts about the specific time period that saw the emergence of the style, most furniture enthusiasts agree that by the late 1960s, interest in MCM had largely declined. Writer Cara Greenberg, who coined the term “mid-century modernism,” suggests that “the period from the end of World War II to 1960 – from V-J Day to JFK – was the heyday of innovative furniture design in America.” Mid-century modern furniture is characterized by clean lines and inviting, organic shapes. Furniture makers of the era believed that good design was an essential part of good living. Find a variety of vintage mid-century modern furniture and decorative objects on 1stDibs.

Question 19

Is Eames mid-century modern?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Eames is mid-century modern. In many ways, Charles Eames and Ray Eames were the embodiment of the inventiveness, energy and optimism at the heart of mid-century modern American design, and they have been recognized as the most influential designers of the 20th century. Some of the couple's most famous mid-century modern designs include the Eames Lounge chair and ottoman, the Eames Molded Plywood chair and the Eames Fiberglass chair. Shop a wide range of Charles and Ray Eames furniture on 1stDibs.

Question 20

What is mid century modern furniture?

Accepted Answer

Mid-century modernism first appeared in 1945 and merged a minimalist aesthetic with practicality. Mid-century modern furniture is distinguishable by its lack of decoration or extravagance and its use of clean lines, organic curves and variety of natural materials.

Arizona Mid Century

1970s Realist Color Photography

Slim AaronsSlim Aarons, "Poolside in Arizona" (Midcentury Architecture, Vintage Desert), 1973

1970s Realist Color Photography

Slim AaronsSlim Aarons, "Poolside in Arizona" (Midcentury Architecture, Vintage Desert), 1973

1970s Realist Color Photography

Slim AaronsSlim Aarons, "Poolside in Arizona" (Midcentury Architecture, Vintage Desert), 1973

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Color Photography

Richard HeepsSpace Age Lodge, Gila Bend, Arizona - Mid-century Googie Sign photo, 2001-2023

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Color Photography

Richard HeepsSpace Age Lodge, Gila Bend, Arizona - Mid-century Googie Sign photo, 2001-2023

1950s American Impressionist Landscape Paintings

Bob CustisMid Century South Coyote Buttes, Arizona Landscape, 1955

1940s Impressionist Landscape Paintings

Claire McAnearMid Century Desert Landscape -- Adobe House at Black Canyon, Arizona, 1945

Mid-20th Century American Impressionist Landscape Paintings

Sid CedargreenNear Tubac, Arizona, c.1960

Mid-20th Century American Impressionist Landscape Drawings and Watercolors

James March PhillipsForgotten Ranch House, Arizona, c.1950

Mid-20th Century Contemporary Black and White Photography

Graham NashShawn Colvin, Arizona 1991

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Posters

1960 TWA, Arizona Original Vintage Poster

1980s Contemporary Color Photography

Steve FitchMesa, Arizona, December, 1980 , 1980

Early 2000s Contemporary Color Photography

Steve FitchHackberry, Arizona, March, 2002

Mid-20th Century Contemporary Black and White Photography

John R. HamiltonJohn Wayne, Old Tucson, Arizona 1967

Mid-20th Century Realist Black and White Photography

Sepia-Toned Architectural Photograph of San Xavier Mission in Tucson, Arizona, Mid 20th Century

1980s Contemporary Color Photography

Steve FitchMesa, Arizona, December, 1980 #5 , 1980

Vintage 1940s American Mid-Century Modern Paintings

Carlo of Hollywood Arizona Desert Midcentury Painting

Mid-20th Century Turkish Turkish Rugs

20th Century, Green Yellow Arizona Sunset Fantasy by Zeki Müren, ca 1970

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Paintings

Lee Porzio Mixed Media Painting Midcentury Scottsdale Arizona Artist

Mid-20th Century American Impressionist Landscape Drawings and Watercolors

California Hills, Mid Century Landscape Watercolor , mid-20th Century

Vintage 1940s American Mid-Century Modern Vases

1943 Poston Arizona Camp Art Handcrafted Wood Hexagonal Vase

Antique Mid-19th Century Natural Specimens

Wulfenite from Defiance Mine, Costello Mine Group, Gleeson, Arizona

Mid-20th Century American Adirondack Decorative Baskets

Certified Papago Arizona Basket with the Original Papers

Early 2000s Contemporary Color Photography

Richard HeepsMartini Corner, Bisbee, Arizona - Vintage interior color photography, 2001

1970s Realist Color Photography

Slim AaronsPoolside in Arizona, Estate Edition (Vintage Midcentury Architecture), 1973

Early 2000s Contemporary Color Photography

Richard HeepsMartini Corner, Bisbee, Arizona - Vintage interior color photography, 2001

Early 2000s Contemporary Color Photography

Richard HeepsMartini Corner, Bisbee, Arizona - Vintage interior color photography, 2001

Mid-20th Century American Impressionist Landscape Drawings and Watercolors

Overlooking the Bay, Mid-Century Coastal Landscape Watercolor , mid-20th Century

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Paintings

Swan Lake Abstract Watercolor Painting Raima. Max Ernst Arizona State Fair 1958

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Ceramics

Beatrice Wood Signed Mid-Century California Pottery Luster Crater Glaze Vase

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Prints

Irving Amen Signed Mid-Century Modern Framed Color Woodcut Print Susan

Vintage 1940s American Mid-Century Modern Posters

"Arizona" Vintage Santa Fe Railroad Travel Poster by Don Perceval, circa 1940s

Antique Mid-18th Century Maps

Antique Map of Baja California and parts of Alta California, Arizona and Sonora

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Ceramics

Beatrice Wood Signed Mid-Century California Pottery Dark Lava Crater Glaze Vase

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Ceramics

Beatrice Wood Signed Rare Mid-Century Luster Lava Glazed Minature Small Vase

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Decorative Art

Dick Seeger Psychedelic Mid-Century Painting

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Ceramics

Beatrice Wood Signed Mid-Century California Pottery Dark Lava Luster Glaze Vase

1970s Realist Color Photography

Slim AaronsSlim Aarons, "Poolside in Arizona" (Architecture, Desert, Pool, 1970's), 1973

1970s Realist Color Photography

Slim AaronsSlim Aarons, "Poolside in Arizona" (Architecture, Desert, Pool, 1970's), 1973

Mid-20th Century Contemporary Color Photography

Slim Aarons
Slim Aarons, "Poolside in Arizona" (Midcentury Architecture, Vintage Desert), 1973

Slim Aarons
Slim Aarons, "Poolside in Arizona" (Midcentury Architecture, Vintage Desert), 1973

Slim Aarons
Slim Aarons, "Poolside in Arizona" (Midcentury Architecture, Vintage Desert), 1973

Richard Heeps
Space Age Lodge, Gila Bend, Arizona - Mid-century Googie Sign photo, 2001-2023

Richard Heeps
Space Age Lodge, Gila Bend, Arizona - Mid-century Googie Sign photo, 2001-2023

Bob Custis
Mid Century South Coyote Buttes, Arizona Landscape, 1955

Claire McAnear
Mid Century Desert Landscape -- Adobe House at Black Canyon, Arizona, 1945

Sid Cedargreen
Near Tubac, Arizona, c.1960

James March Phillips
Forgotten Ranch House, Arizona, c.1950

Graham Nash
Shawn Colvin, Arizona 1991

Steve Fitch
Mesa, Arizona, December, 1980 , 1980

Steve Fitch
Hackberry, Arizona, March, 2002

John R. Hamilton
John Wayne, Old Tucson, Arizona 1967

Steve Fitch
Mesa, Arizona, December, 1980 #5 , 1980

Richard Heeps
Martini Corner, Bisbee, Arizona - Vintage interior color photography, 2001

Slim Aarons
Poolside in Arizona, Estate Edition (Vintage Midcentury Architecture), 1973

Richard Heeps
Martini Corner, Bisbee, Arizona - Vintage interior color photography, 2001

Richard Heeps
Martini Corner, Bisbee, Arizona - Vintage interior color photography, 2001

Slim Aarons
Slim Aarons, "Poolside in Arizona" (Architecture, Desert, Pool, 1970's), 1973

Slim Aarons
Slim Aarons, "Poolside in Arizona" (Architecture, Desert, Pool, 1970's), 1973

John R. Hamilton
John Wayne, during the filming of "The Searchers, ” Monument Valley, Arizona-Utah

Thomas Moran
Grand Canyon of Arizona from Hermit Rim, Vintage 1912 Chromolithograph, 1912

Marian Stahl
'In the Shade of La Casa Cordova, Tucson', Meyer Street, Arizona, Circa 1960

Frank Leslie True
Mid-Century Country Lane Landscape, 1950

Robert Floodstrand
"Ear of Corn, Sioux", Mid Century Native American Portrait, c.1950

William Clothier Watts
Mid Century Portrait of a Gentleman, 1956

William L. Hughes
Large Mid Century California Nocturnal Seascape (Double Sided Painting), 1960

Cynthia Bissell
Mid Century Modern Abstracted Figurative - Man's Morning, 1961

Esther Florence Violet King Root
Mid Century Winter Landscape -- Meadows Valley Idaho, 1954

Chikara "Don" Oka
Mid Century Alaskan Winter Aleutian Islands Landscape, 1944